Spring is the time when new things begin. Furthermore, our bodies need time to adapt to new conditions: warmer and humid weather, blooming trees, and returning to outdoor activities.
Unquestionably, spring is one of the most loved seasons; however, this transition period can bring some of the most common springtime illnesses: allergies, respiratory infections, hay fever, Lyme disease, etc.
Why do I get sick when spring starts?
Weather transition from cold to warm provides an opportunity for viruses and bacteria to thrive. Moreover, changing weather conditions affect our immune system and make us more prone to getting infections.
Furthermore, trees, flowers, and grass start to grow and bloom, filling the air with the most common allergens, including pollen, mold and grass.
Allergies
The spring season can trigger several allergies as a result of plenty of pollen in the air. The symptoms of seasonal allergies are
- Rhinitis or hay fever (sneezing, itchy throat, nose swelling and mucus production)
- conjunctivitis (red, teary, burning, itchy and swollen eyes)
Pollen allergies are not life-threatening but can be annoying and seem never to end. To combat seasonal allergies, you can use OTCs (nasal sprays, eye drops, pills and liquids) or prescription medications. Contact your GP if you can’t manage your symptoms with OTCs.
Common colds
The most common respiratory infection during springtime is the common cold. Rhinoviruses are responsible for 50% of cases of regular colds. Handwashing can prevent contamination with viruses. Symptoms start 1-3 days after exposure to the virus. The symptoms are:
- runny or stuffy nose
- sore throat
- cough
- sneezing
- general malaise
- minor body aches or mild headaches
- low-grade fever (between 99.5℉ (37.5℃) and 100.3℉ (37.9℃))
Generally, most people recover from a common cold during 7-10 days without any treatment. But see your healthcare provider if you have:
- Symptoms that get worse or symptoms that do not get better after 10 days.
- High temperature for more than 3 days
- Fever returning after fever-free period
- short of breath or have a chest pain
- Cough for more than 3 weeks.
- cold and chronic medical conditions (for example, diabetes, heart, kidney, or lung disease)
- Cold and weakened immune system (e.g., you having chemotherapy)
Flu (influenza)
The peak season of flu is from December to February, but, unfortunately, the risk of getting the flu stays high till May. Influenza is caused by influenza A, B and C viruses. Symptoms are:
- runny or stuffy nose
- fever
- cough
- headache
- muscle aches
- feeling very tired
- sweating and chills
Most people with the flu don’t need medical care, but if you have the risk of complications, you should see your healthcare professional.
Asthma
Asthma is a chronic medical condition. Outdoor triggers of asthma during springtime are pollen, temperature changes, fertilizers and bug sprays. You should contact your GP if prescribed medications do not work.
Lyme disease
Lyme disease is a tick-borne illness transmitted by deer ticks. They are active in tall grasses and other vegetation. Symptoms of Lyme disease are:
- headache
- body pain
- tiredness
- fever
- swollen lymph nodes
- “bulls-eye” rash
The disease can be life-threatening and affect your nervous system and heart. To prevent getting infected, avoid tall grass and wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when out in nature. In addition, check your clothes and skin for ticks after an outdoor trip. When you find a tick, gently remove it with fine-tip tweezers, making sure that the head is intact. If you weren’t able to get the head, visit a full-service family health care center for treatment to remove the head.
Gastroenteritis
Viral gastroenteritis is common in spring for the same reason as the common cold. Noroviruses are the common pathogens of viral gastroenteritis. The symptoms usually last 1-3 days and resolve without treatment. Symptoms are:
- Stomach pain and cramps
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
Prevention of springtime illnesses
Use prevention strategies for springtime illnesses: wash your hands regularly, avoid touching your mouth, nose and eyes, eat healthy food, exercise regularly, and keep up with your vaccinations.
For seasonal allergy prevention, you should
- Take a shower and change your clothes after you have been outside for a long period.
- Keep the windows and doors closed in your home and in your car.
- Use air purifiers in your home.
- Make sure that air conditioning system filters are changed as directed.
When to see a doctor?
Most of the above-mentioned diseases are not life-threatening, but if you have symptoms affecting your daily life, make an appointment with your GP. Get emergency help if you have life-threatening symptoms, such as shortness of breath, chest pain and high fever.
